Acne Spot Treatment Formulation Advice

You're looking to create a liquid, water-based spot treatment for acne using Salicylic Acid, Sugarcane Extract, and Tea Tree Oil. This is a good combination for targeting acne, especially for combination to oily skin.

However, the standard forms of Salicylic Acid, Sugarcane Extract, and Tea Tree Oil are not easily soluble in water, which is necessary for your desired liquid texture.

To achieve a stable, clear liquid formula, consider these options:

• Salicylic Acid: Instead of standard Salicylic Acid, use a water-soluble version like ActiveRelease™ Salicylic Acid or Liquid Salicylic Acid. These are designed to dissolve directly in water.
• Sugarcane Extract: While Sugarcane Extract is not water-soluble, it can be dissolved in glycols like Propylene Glycol or Butylene Glycol. You can incorporate a small percentage of one of these glycols into your water phase to help solubilize the extract.
• Tea Tree Oil: The standard Tea Tree Oil is oil-soluble. Use the Tea Tree Oil (Water Soluble) version, which is specifically designed to disperse in water. Alternatively, you could use a solubilizer like PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil to help incorporate the standard Tea Tree Oil into the water phase, but the water-soluble version is generally easier for a clear liquid.

Recommended Additional Ingredients for Inflamed Acne and Oily Skin:

To enhance the effectiveness of your spot treatment for inflamed acne and oily skin, consider adding:

• Safe-B3™ (Vitamin B3, Niacinamide): Excellent for reducing oiliness, minimizing pores, and reducing redness and inflammation associated with acne. It is water-soluble.
• Zinc PCA: Helps regulate sebum production and has antibacterial properties, making it effective for acne-prone skin. It is water-soluble.
• Allantoin: Known for its soothing and skin-healing properties, which can help calm inflamed acne and promote recovery.

By using water-soluble versions of your key actives or incorporating appropriate solvents/solubilizers, you can create the liquid, water-based texture you desire while effectively targeting acne.